Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my new kitten's voice raspy after I scruffed her?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 24 days old | 2 lbs

I'm a new kitten owner and inexperienced. I was told to grab my kitten by the scruff to correct bad behavior, but i just looked that up and found out that its harmful. I feel really bad. Now my kitten has a really raspy voice. Is this connected? and what do i do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 19th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Sullivan. Don't beat yourself up, you didn't know! She should be ok from it and it won't cause her to have a really raspy voice. More than likely, she has a respiratory infection. I'd have her seen by a vet to have the raspy voice treated. And give yourself some grace. You made a mistake, you've learned from it, and it won't happen again. I hope this helps!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button